As educators, we are always looking for innovative ways to reach our students and engage them in learning experiences. One such way is by using popular television shows like American Horror Story (AHS) to teach students about different themes and contemporary issues. The anthology series, created by Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk, has aired ten seasons, each with a distinct setting and storyline, allowing for diverse teaching opportunities. This article will discuss how to teach students about key aspects of American Horror Story seasons using captivating storytelling resources.

Season 1: Murder House

The first season deals with themes like infidelity, family dynamics, and troubled pasts. It also touches upon historical events like the Black Dahlia murder case. Educators can use this season to explore the psychological aspects of relationships and family issues while incorporating true crime stories to enhance students’ learning experience.

Season 2: Asylum

Set in an insane asylum in the 1960s, season two tackles themes such as mental health stigma, torture, and moral ambiguity. Teachers can use this season to discuss the history of psychiatric treatments and facilities while highlighting the importance of ethics in medical practices. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for discussions around stereotypes about mental disorders.

Season 3: Coven

This season delves into witchcraft’s history and discrimination against women accused of practicing it. Lessons can focus on misogyny throughout history and how women were scapegoated for societal issues. Educators can also engage students in exploring feminist movements like intersectionality that champion all marginalized groups.

Season 4: Freak Show

Freak Show is set in a 1950s carnival environment that showcases physical deformities. It provides a platform to discuss disability rights and acceptance of diversity. Teachers can reflect on historical attitudes towards people with disabilities while discussing how society has progressed over time.

Season 5: Hotel

Hotel’s theme encompasses depravity, addiction, and the quest for eternal youth. Educators can use this season to focus on drug abuse, addiction prevention, and maintaining healthy mental well-being in discussions. Furthermore, the concept of vanity can be explored in relation to consumerism and the importance of self-worth.

Season 6: Roanoke

Drawing inspiration from the historical “Lost Colony” of Roanoke, season six blends mystery and supernatural elements. Teachers can use this season as an opportunity to teach students about early American history, colonization, and Native American relationships while exploring speculative storytelling that combines history with imagination.

Season 7: Cult

Cult offers an insight into how influential figures manipulate others for personal gain by exploiting people’s fears and vulnerabilities. This season can be used to teach students about political agendas, propaganda techniques, and groupthink mentality.

Season 8: Apocalypse

Apocalypse combines a post-apocalyptic world with supernatural conflicts to explore human survival instincts and moral dilemmas. Teachers can discuss environmental issues, natural disasters, ethical decision-making processes in crisis situations, and human resilience.

Season 9: 1984

Set in a summer camp during the 1980s, this slasher-themed season allows lessons on film history by exploring sub-genres like horror or suspense. Additionally, educators can teach about the social issues prevalent in that decade by discussing pop culture references sprinkled throughout the show.

Season 10: Double Feature

The most recent season delves into themes such as artistic obsession, ambition versus moral integrity, and alien encounters. Double Feature provides opportunities for discussing artistic censorship, ethical boundaries in creative pursuits, and conspiracy theories surrounding extraterrestrial life.